DJ and producer Chase B is making a definitive statement with his debut mixtape, "Be Very Afraid," a culmination of years of creative exploration and collaboration. The project not only showcases his eclectic musical tastes, blending various genres into a cohesive sound, but also serves as a testament to his deep roots in Houston's vibrant culture, while looking forward to a global reach. His journey, closely intertwined with childhood friend and superstar Travis Scott, highlights a seamless blend of personal history and professional ambition, impacting both the music and fashion industries. Through his work, Chase B is not merely releasing music; he's articulating a vision for Houston's evolving sound and solidifying his position as a prominent curator in the contemporary music landscape.
The Genesis of 'Be Very Afraid' and Houston's Resurgence
Chase B's highly anticipated mixtape, "Be Very Afraid," represents a significant personal and artistic declaration. This project, which has been years in the making, defies easy categorization, weaving together diverse musical elements ranging from dance and electronic to R&B and hard rap. Its lead single, "Satellite," featuring Don Toliver and SoFaygo, vividly illustrates this genre-fluid approach and serves as a visual homage to modern Houston, moving beyond traditional imagery to highlight a dynamic, forward-thinking urban culture. The mixtape is not just a collection of tracks; it's a carefully curated sonic journey reflecting Chase B's varied influences and his determination to leave a distinct mark on the music world. He emphasizes that the project is an open invitation into his artistic universe, demonstrating his prowess as a genre-less producer and DJ.
The creation of "Be Very Afraid" commenced around 2018-2019, following an unexpected inquiry about his interest in releasing a solo project. This led to a signing with Columbia Records and the gradual assembly of tracks, with early singles like "Mayday" featuring Young Thug and Sheck Wes, setting the tone. Over the years, the project evolved significantly, adapting to the fast-paced nature of rap culture where songs often found homes on other artists' albums. Despite these shifts, Chase B remained committed to crafting a cohesive and innovative body of work. The mixtape now stands as a testament to his dedication, featuring 13 tracks that he considers the most progressive and modern-sounding, reflecting his authentic preferences and diverse interests. This dedication extends to an ambition to push Houston's unique hip-hop identity onto the global stage, showcasing a new era of talent emerging from the city.
Collaborative Spirit and Global Ambitions
The collaborative essence of Chase B's career is deeply rooted in his long-standing friendship with Travis Scott, a bond forged in their Houston youth and matured through shared musical endeavors. This partnership, which began with playing Scott's early music at college parties, naturally evolved into Chase B becoming his trusted DJ and creative confidant, laying the groundwork for the influential Cactus Jack collective. This collective is now at the forefront of a modern Houston rap renaissance, with artists like Don Toliver, Maxo Kream, Monaleo, and Ken the Man contributing to a rich and diverse talent pool. Chase B highlights the close-knit family vibe within Cactus Jack, where artists support each other's individual projects and collective ventures, extending beyond music into fashion and media.
Beyond his musical output, Chase B has expanded his creative footprint into various domains, notably through his partnerships with Nike and his "Aux Money" podcast. His long-standing role as a Jordan ambassador culminated in the launch of his own OG Chase B Jordan colorway, a significant milestone reflecting his deep engagement with sneaker culture. This venture, like many within the Cactus Jack orbit, exemplifies a shared ethos of creative diversification, where each member pursues individual branding opportunities while maintaining a unified vision. His "Aux Money" podcast, developed from a desire to provide a platform for genuine conversations about music, fashion, and life, further underscores his commitment to fostering dialogue and promoting authentic artistic expression. For 2026, Chase B envisions showcasing Houston's unique cultural contributions to a global audience, proving that authentic creativity can thrive anywhere, even beyond traditional music hubs.